Henderson
Historical marker location:Founded as the county seat for the newly created county of Rusk in 1843, Henderson was named for Republic of Texas pioneer and statesman James Pinckney Henderson, who would later become the first Governor of the State of Texas. Land for the town was donated by W. B. Ochiltree, who stipulated that it be named for his friend Henderson, and by Republic of Texas General James Smith, who is known as the "Father of Henderson."
Town lots were sold soon after the city was established, with land set aside for both churches and schools. A wooden courthouse was built in the center of town in 1849, and the town grew steadily as homes and businesses were constructed.
A disastrous fire destroyed much of the central business district in 1860. Following the Civil War and the arrival of the railroads in this area in the 1870s, a large number of brick structures were built in the downtown area.
The discovery of the vast East Texas oil field in 1930 caused an economic boom in Henderson. The population increased from 2,000 to 10,000 within a matter of months. The town continues to serve as a center of commerce and civic activities
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
There is always hope for Texas.
In the early 19th century, American pioneers began to settle in what is now Rusk County. The county was named after Thomas Jefferson Rusk, a prominent Texas statesman and military leader. Rusk County played a significant role in the Texas Revolution, with several local residents participating in the Battle of San Jacinto, which ultimately led to Texas gaining independence from Mexico in 1836.
The discovery of oil in Rusk County in the early 20th century brought a wave of economic development and prosperity to the area. The East Texas Oil Boom transformed Rusk County into one of the largest oil-producing regions in the United States, attracting thousands of workers and businesses to the county. The oil industry continues to be a major economic driver in Rusk County today.
In addition to its oil heritage, Rusk County is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The city of Henderson, the county seat, boasts a historic downtown district with many well-preserved buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The county is also home to numerous historical sites, museums, and events that celebrate its history, including the Rusk County Historical Commission and the Depot Museum in Henderson.
Rusk County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Rusk County, Texas.
- 1843 - Rusk County established as a county in the Republic of Texas
- 1858 - The town of Henderson becomes the county seat
- 1861-1865 - Rusk County residents participate in the American Civil War
- 1901 - The first oil well is drilled in Rusk County, leading to the East Texas Oil Boom
- 1937 - Rusk County experiences a devastating flood, causing significant damage
- 1964 - Martin Luther King Jr. delivers a speech in Henderson during the Civil Rights Movement
- 1989 - The Texas Legislature designates Rusk County as the "Antique Capital of East Texas"
- 2020 - Rusk County celebrates its 177th anniversary